We have a vacancy for a Post Doctoral Research Associate at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam to develop instrumentation for gravitational wave observatories.
At the heart of the Virgo and LIGO gravitational-wave detectors there are laser interferometers that measure distances with unprecedented sensitivity. While the basic operating principles are simple, they are very complex instruments. Our group develops the main interferometer simulation software used within the community and builds new hardware for shielding the ‘test masses’ from external vibrations. We have just begun preparing the detailed design of the Einstein Telescope (ET), a proposed new gravitational wave observatory in Europe. ET will be capable of delivering new and fascinating science over several decades, but its realisation will require substantial improvements to the most sensitive instruments every built.
This position is part of a European Research Council ‘OmniSens’ consolidator grant, working with Dr Conor Mow-Lowry to develop the ‘6D interferometric inertial isolator’, an ultra-sensitive vibration isolation system (
arxiv:1801.01468). The project team will consist of 2 PhD students, 2 post-doctoral research associates, a Systems Engineer, the PI, and part-time contributions from mechanical and electronic technical staff.
Your roleThe aim of this project is to apply laser interferometers to vibration isolation, allowing us to provide unprecedented performance improvements and extend the astrophysical reach of gravitational-wave observatories. Several big questions in astronomy can be answered observing the coalescence of heavy black holes deep in the universe. Unfortunately the gravitational-wave signals they create are at low frequencies, between 2 and 20 Hz, and they sit behind a wall of noise. The OmniSens project provides a way forward by combining our new laser-interferometer technology with novel materials and design to reach extreme sensitivities. The instruments and techniques we develop will be applicable to the Virgo and LIGO detectors and they can be foundational elements of the Einstein Telescope.
The position is affiliated with the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and the successful candidate will be embedded in the gravitational-wave group at Nikhef also located in Amsterdam.